U.S. soccer beats Bosnia 2-0, advances, Balogun red-carded

The United States men's national soccer team advanced to the World Cup Round of 16 on Wednesday with a 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in Santa Clara, California, in a match defined by a moment of brilliance and a moment of controversy from striker Folarin Balogun. The forward scored the opening goal late in the first half and celebrated by mimicking NBA superstar LeBron James's signature "Silencer" move, prompting James to praise him on social media. However, Balogun was later sent off with a straight red card, forcing the U.S. to play the final stages with 10 men.

Balogun gave the U.S. a 1-0 lead in the 44th minute, latching onto a deflected pass and slotting the ball past the goalkeeper for his third goal of the tournament. His celebration, which involved pounding his chest and pushing his arms downward, was immediately recognized by James, who posted on X, "LFG!!!!!! The Silencer has landed at the World Cup! Helluva goal there Young King. Go USA." The post garnered millions of views.

The match's momentum shifted in the second half when Balogun was shown a red card following a Video Assistant Referee review for a challenge on Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic. The...